Review of Iron Man (2008) by Owen H — 03 Jun 2016

In 2008 the Marvel Cinematic Universe began with Iron Man. Eight years, twelve films and four TV series later it is still going strong and churning out billions for Marvel Studios. It is strange to look back at Iron Man now, as it was a huge risk as so much depended on its critical and commercial success, but it paid off and we have it to thank for the golden age of the superhero genre.

The story follows billionaire weapons designer Tony Stark who, after his capture by terrorists in Afghanistan, creates the Iron Man suit to escape and further combat terrorism. Stark's "likeable asshole" (as described by director Jon Favreau) persona is key to how well the film works. An arrogant, heavy drinking narcissist is a change from average comic book heroes and Robert Downey Jr adds a level of wit and charm that rounds out the character brilliantly. Downey carries the film with ease thanks to a very natural performance that allowed him to become the face of the MCU. It is incredible when you remember that most of his lines were either improvised on the spot or worked out on the day with Favreau, as the filmmakers focused on the general plot and action instead of a complete script. It is reminiscent of Robin Williams at times, as you really cannot tell whether some parts are the result of a great piece of screenwriting or just what was in Downey's head at the time. Jon Favreau deserves a lot of credit for going against Marvel Studio and casting the previously troubled actor.

The film manages to go against many of the genre clichés, for example the focus on terrorism gives it a somewhat grounded feel, making it more relevant than the usual superheroes that beat up lowlife criminals in the dark allies of a New York style cityscape. However the final third diminishes these efforts with an O.K. villain and an exciting but predictable final encounter. Looking back it feels like this may have been an attempt to lower the risk factor of the film and make it more mainstream.

It is also worth noting the CGI use in the movie as well, Favreau uses a well balanced mix of practical and digital effects, resulting in a film that is not the GCI monstrosity that modern blockbusters often end becoming. The film looks slick and the action has a good physical feel that makes it exciting.

Despite a lacklustre final act that does it no favours, Iron Man is a superior blockbuster that is interesting, intelligent, funny and thrilling. It provided the joyful blueprint for the later Marvel movies and, as you watch the film that started it all, it is easy to understand the success that followed.